The Working with Children Check (WWCC) is a requirement for anyone in paid or volunteer child-related work in NSW.
When you first apply for a WWCC, you will be issued an APP number. We undertake police and record checks before deciding whether to provide a WWCC clearance by issuing a WWC number. Provide your employer with your APP number when you receive it, and your WWC number when it is issued.
Under our legislation, a person can start working with children once they have an APP number. However, some employers require workers to hold a WWCC clearance, for example if you are employed by NSW Health, if you are working in early childhood education and care, or if you are working as a teacher requiring NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) accreditation.
The Check lasts for 5 years even if you change roles. 3 months before your Check expires we will email you with a reminder to renew your Check.
New and renewal applications can take time. Ensure that you apply or renew early to allow time for police and record checks to be undertaken. If your WWCC clearance expires while your renewal is in progress, your status will show as 'application made'.
Under our legislation, you can work with children if this happens. However, some employers require workers to hold a WWCC clearance, for example if you are employed by NSW Health, if you are working in early childhood education and care, or if you are working as a teacher requiring NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) accreditation.
All WWCC holders are subject to continuous monitoring for new police or workplace records so that we can prevent unsuitable people from working with children.